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The American South: 5 COVID-19 stories to read today

The American South, part of the USA TODAY Network(Photo: Heather Holmes)

Here is your weekly look at interesting stories from around the South that challenge us and celebrate us. The American South roundup includes stories from USA TODAY Network news organizations across our Southern states.

This week: South Carolinians turn to a favorite hobby for a break from the stress of COVID-19. One of Louisiana's biggest industries is feeling the coronavirus economic crunch. A Mississippi county accustomed to hardship finds itself spared from the coronavirus. Alabama advocates push to expand voting access with a primary looming and social distancing threatening to hamper turnout. And Tennessee student athletes find themselves starting for hometown hospitals.

From revenue to jobs, the oil industry is essential to the Louisiana economy. But with oil prices low and workers being laid off amid the pandemic, industry advocates are looking to the state for help.

Alabama has been averse to expanding voter access in recent years. But with a July primary looming and social distancing remaining a threat to turnout, a federal lawsuit is seeking to change how votes can be cast.

Communication. Teamwork. These are the principles that guided some Tennessee student athletes to success while in college. And after graduating with nursing degrees, they are lessons these nurses are applying to their rookie year working at hospitals amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.